Just as it is not reliable to measure the depth of the sea at low tide, it is not fair to evaluate civilisations and cultures at a low point in their history.
A FORTHCOMING seminar in Germany is examining the question whether the Arab world (and by association Islam) is compatible with democracy, rule of law and modernity? It can be conceded that such a question is given credence by the involvement of some Muslims in acts of terrorism and the inability of many Muslim nations to achieve good governance and economic development.